Viewing Earth from space can change an astronaut's cosmic perspective, and this change is known as the ‘Overview Effect’. This concept, coined by space writer Frank White in 1987, is defined as a heightened sense of awe and responsibility for our planet.

The Overview Effect can profoundly affect the way you think about Earth and life. Astronauts often use the words ‘beautiful’ and ‘fragile’ to describe the experience. NASA astronaut Jeanette Epps photographed this unique moment, or an image captured with a slow shutter speed, as the International Space Station (@ISS) soared 262 miles (422 kilometres) above Western Australia.

Image description:

A yellow-green haze glows in the Earth's atmosphere, while stars of varying brightness are seen above the Earth. Clouds appear to be moving over a body of water.

 

Credit: NASA/Jeanette Epps

Isn't it nice to see our world from a different perspective?